Bargain Hunter Finds Reason to Like Rhyme / Working copy of `The Village Blacksmith'

Published 4:00 am, Saturday, June 3, 1995

Mark Holmes had never heard of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow when he paid pocket change at a garage sale last year for what may be a manuscript of one of the 19th century American poet's most famous works.

University of Houston English professor Dorothy Baker, who specializes in early American literature, said she is almost certain the handwritten poem Holmes purchased because of its wooden frame is a working copy of Longfellow's poem, "The Village Blacksmith."

Longfellow (1807-1882) was revered in his time for works such as "Evangeline," "Paul Revere's Ride" and "The Song of Hiawatha."

Baker said Holmes' first question was "Have you ever heard of Longfellow?"

"I was very suspicious," said Baker, who became excited when she examined the poem.

"After about five minutes, I found the manuscript was very convincing," Baker said.

"It was clearly a working copy. The poet had crossed out lines, changed words, made different rhyme choices, and it was done by someone who was aware of the kind of editorial symbols you would expect," she said.

"It was clear to me that the poet was preparing this manuscript for publication," said Baker, who added she believes it is the version submitted to Knickerbocker magazine, which first published the poem in November 1840.

Baker said there is no indication of how the manuscript got to Texas from Longfellow's native New England.

Holmes, who works for a manufacturing company, was also excited to learn the possible significance of his find, but said: "We are going to sell it to the highest bidder.

"Baker said it is like a kiss from God, and I am going to make the most of it."

Holmes said he has been approached by several collectors and dealers and has been told the manuscript could be auctioned for up to $7,000.